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LIBRARY  OF  PRINCETON 


MAY  2  4  2005 


THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 

in  2010  with  funding  from 

Princeton  Theological  Seminary  Library 


http://www.archive.org/details/addressdeliverOObarb 


ADDRESS 


DELIVERED   BEFORE   THE 


ALUMNI    ASSOCIATION 

OP 

LAFAYETTE  COLLEGE, 

September   14,   1847. 


BY 

WILLIAM   E.  ^BARBER,   A.M. 


ftufilisjjrtr  t)t»  Hcqucst  o£  fyz  dissociation. 


EASTON,    PA. 

PUBLISHED   FOR   THE   ASSOCIATION. 

1847. 


~© 


JOHN  WESTALL   &   CO.,    PRINTERS, 

11  SFRTJCB  STREET,  NEW-YORK. 


ADDRESS 


Gentlemen 


The  return  of  another  anniversary  of  the  Alumni  Association, 
has  again  convened  us  together.  We  meet  as  brethren,  after  a 
long  and  distant  separation,  to  exchange  congratulations,  and  re- 
unite our  hearts  and  sympathies  under  the  roof  of  the  old  home- 
stead. We  have  left  our  various  avocations,  and  laid  aside  the 
insignia  of  our  daily  toil,  and  have  come  up  to  cast  our  votive 
offerings  of  respect  and  affection,  and  whatever  worldly  laurels 
we  may  have  gathered,  during  our  absence,  into  the  lap  of  our 
alma  mater.  Time,  without  destroying  our  loyalty  to  the  dis- 
tinctive society,  whose  badge  we  were  proud  to  wear  when  act- 
ively engaged  in  the  duties  of  this  institution,  has  mellowed 
down  the  prejudices  which  once  disturbed  our  intercourse,  and 
uprooted  the  bitterness  too  often  engendered  by  an  undue  emu- 
lation. We  remember  our  youthful  partizan  manifestations, 
only  to  be  amused  at  their  folly,  or  to  deplore  the  excesses 
into  which  they  hurried  us.  All  our  former  animosities  are 
forgotten  in  the  joy  of  this  re-union. 

Assembled  thus,  under  circumstances  peculiarly  favorable 
to  retrospection,  we  are  transported  back,  through  the  lapse  of 
years,  to  the  sun-lit  days  of  our  collegiate  discipline.  Faces 
that  bent  with  us  over  the  books  of  study — forms  that  wrestled 
with  us  on  the*  college  campus — competitors,  with  whom,  in 
bloodless  conflict,  we  grappled  upon  the  arena  of  literary  con- 
test— countenances  of  instructors,  that  were  accustomed  to  greet 


ADDRESS 


us  in  the  recitation  halls,  and  all  the  accompanying  scenes  of 
our  scholastic  life,  arrange  themselves  in  a  beauteous  panorama 
before  us. 

But  we  meet,  not,  merely,  to  resuscitate  the  associations  of 
the  past — to  grasp  the  hand  of  fellowship,  and  renew  the  inti- 
macies which  time  and  distance  have  interrupted.  Since  the 
period  when  we  stood  upon  the  threshold  of  yonder  edifice, 
holding  in  our  hands  the  certificates  of  our  scholarship  ;  our 
brows  flushed  with  gladness  that  the  term  of  our  preparatory 
discipline  had  expired,  and  our  pulses  beating  high  with  the 
expectation  of  future  success  ;  we  have  tasted  the  enjoyments, 
and  perchance,  experienced  the  trials  of  that  world,  which  was 
so  long  the  object  of  our  aspirations  ;  and  we  now  return  to 
impart  to  one  another  the  lessons  we  have  learned  in  our  inter- 
course with  men  ;  to  collect  into  a  common  reservoir  the  ac- 
cumulated results  of  our  observation  and  experience,  whence 
each  may  draw  wisdom,  strength,  and  encouragement  for  the 
more  efficient  discharge  of  the  duties  of  his  calling. 

Without  attempting  any  display  of  classical  learning,  but 
rather  in  departure  from  the  usual  routine  of  topics  of  discourse, 
which  immemorial  custom  has  sanctioned  as  appropriate  to 
occasions  like  the  present,  we  have  selected  a  subject  of  a 
practical  nature,  with  the  hope  that  some  crude  thought,  or 
desultory  suggestion  thrown  out,  may  be  found  worthy  of  pre- 
servation, or,  at  least,  may  have  the  effect  of  directing  attention 
to  the  importance  of  our  theme.  If  we  succeed  in  investing 
our  subject  with  sufficient  interest  to  attract  the  notice  of  any 
of  the  educated  minds  before  us,  the  aim  of  our  ambition  will 
have  been  fully  attained.  We  propose  to  show  that  a  knowl- 
edge of  Human  Character  is  essential  to  the  usefulness  of  edu- 
cated men. 

It  is  unnecessary  to  explain  more  clearly  the  meaning  of  the 
terms  employed  in  the  announcement  of  the  subject.  There  is 
no  obscurity  in  the  language,  nor  can  there  be  any  misconcep- 
tion of  the  sentiment  intended  to  be  enforced.  It  is  rather  to 
be  apprehended  that  the  proposition  is  too  self-evident  to  re- 
quire any  elucidation.  But  whatever  acquiescence  may  be 
yielded  to  the  statement  of  the  truth,  it  requires  only  a  super- 
ficial observance  of  the  actions  of  men  to  discover,  that  but 
little  credence  is  awarded  to  it  in  practical  life.  Without  con- 
troversy, there  exists  throughout  every  grade*  in  society,  a 
deplorable  ignorance  of  the  capacities,  propensities  and  general 
characteristics   of  human   nature.     Side   by  side,   we  journey 


ADDRESS. 


along  through  life,  with  a  goodly  company  of  fellow-travellers, 
and  never  so  much  as  glance  at  the  aspect  or  apparel  of  the 
companions  of  our  pilgrimage.  Especially  is  this  ignorance 
perceived  among  men  of  studious  habits  and  cultivated  minds. 
Their  chambers  of  study  are  their  little  worlds.  The  living, 
moving  throng  of  human  beings  without  are  strange  and  almost 
forgotten.  The  human  caravan  is  daily  passing  before  their 
eyes,  and  few  among  them  know,  or  imagine,  what  a  world  of 
interest  is  hidden  in  the  character  of  each  individual  of  that 
countless  throng. 

He  who  supposes  that  no  other  instruction  is  demanded  for 
the  duties  of  the  world,  than  that  which  is  imparted  at  a  college, 
or  an  university,  has  mistaken  the  end  of  intellectual  effort,  and 
the  object  of  existence.  The  studies  of  a  collegiate  course  are 
designed  more  to  discipline  the  mind  for  the  acquisition  of 
knowledge,  than  to  furnish  it  with  stores  of  erudition,  to  be 
garnered  as  a  source  of  pride,  and  a  subject  of  complacency. 
The  graduate  has  but  gained  the  vestibule  of  the  temple  of 
knowledge.  Within,  are  contained  unnumbered  apartments, 
filled  with  objects  of  curiosity  and  absorbing  interest.  Some  of 
these  apartments  the  feet  of  predecessors  have  already  traversed, 
but  the  greater  number  remain  still  unexplored.  The  farther 
the  votary  proceeds  in  his  inquiries,  the  more  his  happiness  will 
be  increased,  and  the  greater  will  become  his  capacity  for  use- 
fulness. 

The  fountains  whence  information  may  be  drawn,  are  infinite 
in  number  and  variety.  The  most  valuable,  doubtless,  are 
books.  But  they  are  not  the  only  sources  of  knowledge  ;  and, 
it  is  to  be  feared,  they  are  too  frequently  substituted  for  those 
other  aids  which,  though  not  of  equal  value  intrinsically,  are,  at 
least,  necessary  concomitants  of  the  printed  volume.  Observa- 
tion and  reflection  perform  important  offices  in  the  education  of 
the  intellect.  Nature,  in  all  her  diversified  forms  of  interest 
and  enchantment,  are  spread  out  for  their  exercise.  We  need 
not  books  to  teach  us  that  her  scenes  are  transcendently  beauti- 
ful, and  that  the  order  and  regularity  of  her  laws,  and  the 
method  of  her  operations,  in  forming  and  combining  the  con- 
stituent particles  of  matter,  are  calculated  to  inspire  us  with 
amazement,  and  fill  our  minds  with  thoughts  of  beauty  and  sub- 
limity. But  we  can  go  forth  into  the  open  field,  and  penetrate 
the  dark  shade  of  the  forest  ;  and  clamber  to  the  mountain's 
top ;  and  see,  and  hear,  and  feel,  for  ourselves,  the  manifesta- 
tions of  the  power,   the  majesty,   and  love  of  Him  who  has 


ADDRESS. 


created  all   scenes  and   harmonies   for   the  enjoyment  of  his 
rational  creatures. 

The  student  of  Nature  is  usually  assiduous  and  unwearied : 
for  every  step  of  his  progress  increases  the  fascination  of  the 
study ;  every  new  fact  disclosed,  casts  additional  effulgence  over 
the  subject  of  investigation.  The  Mineralogist  willingly  en- 
dures fatigue  and  hardship  in  the  prosecution  of  his  favorite 
science  ;  the  Botanist  pursues,  with  unflagging  ardor,  the  dis- 
covery and  classification  of  plants ;  the  Ornithologist  traverses 
the  rugged  mountain  and  the  tangled  brake  with  untiring  energy, 
to  obtain  some  bird  of  brighter  plumage,  or  sweeter  song,  with 
which  to  grace  his  museum  ;  and  the  Astronomer,  sedulously 
surveying  the  heavens  through  his  telescope,  deems  the  discov- 
ery of  some  new  luminary,  sufficient  compensation  for  years  of 
patient  research.  If,  therefore,  the  inanimate  and  irrational 
parts  of  creation  afford  such  stores  of  captivation  and  delight ; 
if  it  is  a  source  of  exquisite  pleasure,  in  each  flower  that  dis- 
plays its  beauty  to  the  sun,  and  in  each  leaf  that  clothes  the 
tree  with  verdure  and  symmetry,  to  recognize  a  familiar  friend  ; 
to  call  by  name  each  bird,  and  beast,  and  shell,  and  insect ;  and 
to  be  able  to  compass  the  heavens  at  a  glance,  and  claim  an 
intimacy  and  "  kindred  "  with  the  stars ;  how  infinitely  more 
fascinating  should  be  the  study  of  mankind !  For,  "  "What  a 
piece  of  work  is  man  !  How  noble  in  reason !  how  infinite  in 
faculties  !  in  form  and  moving,  how  express  and  admirable!  in 
action  how  like  an  angel !  in  apprehension  how  like  a  god  !  the 
beauty  of  the  world  !   the  paragon  of  animals !" 

But  aside  from  the  pleasure  which  the  prosecution  of  this 
study  affords,  the  knowledge  of  human  character  is  of  the 
greatest  practical  utility  in  all  the  avocations  of  life. 

It  confers  the  power  of  directing  the  7mnds,  and  moulding  the 
conduct  of  men. 

No  one  can  be  extensively  useful  without  influence.  True, 
few  are  entirely  destitute  of  influence,  either  for  good  or  evil. 
Example  itself  is  contagious.  The  constant  attrition  of  minds, 
by  association  and  intercourse,  is  not  without  its  sensible  effect. 
Intercommunication  of  thought  and  sentiment  produces  a  reci- 
procal change  of  purpose  and  opinion.  Influence  of  this  kind  is 
unconsciously  exerted.  But  there  is  an  ascendancy  which  can, 
and  should  be  acquired  by  the  educated,  more  powerful  than  the 
involuntary  assimilation  effected  by  the  contact  of  minds  of 
different  capacities,  and  the  impressions  made  upon  each  by  the 
constant  interchange  of  thought. 


ADDRESS. 


All    have    experienced   the-   power    of    maternal   influence. 
With  what  solicitude  the  faithful  mother  watches  the  opening 
intellect  of  her  child  !     How  painfully  she  marks  the  evil  ten- 
dencies in  its  disposition,  and  how  carefully  she  labors  to  repress 
them,  and  to  mould,  with  the  sentiments  of  a  better  nature,  the 
plastic    mind   of    infancy !     And  if  some   redeeming  traits   of 
character  should  appear,  how  patiently  and  hopefully  she  toils 
for  their  development !     Who  can  have  forgotten  the  wonderful 
facility  with  which  his  mother,  during  the  period  of  his  child- 
hood, could  read  the  thoughts  of  his  heart,  detect  the  presence 
of  deceit,  or  guile,  and  tear  aside  the  veil  of  equivocation  and 
untruth,  with  which  he  had  expected  to  conceal  from  her  the 
knowledge  of  his  disobedience?     To  attempt  to  impose  upon 
her  a  reason,  or  an  actuating  motive,  which  had  no  existence, 
was  a  fruitless  task.     Either  the  countenance  was  an  infallible 
index  of  the  heart,  or  her   acquaintance  with   the  character  of 
the  child,  enabled  her  to  indicate,  unerringly,  the  course  of  con- 
duct which  the  presence  of  certain  scenes  and   temptations  had 
induced.     Neither  time,  place,  nor  circumstance,  can  eradicate 
the  consciousness   of  a   mother's  influence.     Like  a  guardian 
angel,  it  accompanies  the  individual  far  into  manhood,  reaching, 
in  many  cases,  even  to  old  age.     It  clings  to  us  equally  in  soli- 
tude   and    society.     Absence    from    the   parental   roof  cannot 
impair  its  power.     In  the  discharge  of  duty,  the  thought  of  a 
mother's  approving  smile  encourages ;   in  the  haunts  of  vice  and 
dissipation,  the  imagined  sight  of  a  mother's  tear  of  sorrow 
reproves,  with  the  authority  of  a  second  conscience.     Even  the 
assurance  of  a  mother's  death,  rather  augments  than  abates  the 
strength  of  that  ascendancy  which  she  possessed  in  life.     The 
beautiful  fancy  that  the  spirits  of  the  departed  are  permitted  to 
hover  around  the  path  of  those  they  loved  on  earth ;  to  rejoice 
at  their  struggles  for  the  right,  and  to  mourn  over  their  aberra- 
tions ;  is  a  tenet  in  the  creed  of  almost  every  mind.     Harmless, 
as  an  article  of  faith,  and  doing  no  violence  to  the  teachings  of 
inspiration,  it  not  unfrequently  exercises  a  chastening  and  puri- 
fying effect  upon  the  hearts  of  the  living  :  cheering  them  in  their 
despondency,  and  nerving  them  to  the  accomplishment  of  life's 
wearisome  tasks. 

The  authority  of  a  teacher  of  youth  over  his  pupils,  should 
be  second  only  to  that  of  a  parent  over  his  children.  Among 
the  innovations  of  the  age  upon  the  long-established  usages, 
none  seems  to  be  more  generally  welcomed  in  schools,  than  the 
substitution  of  moral   suasion  for  the  wholesome   discipline  of 


ADDRESS. 


the  rod.  Whether  the  satisfaction  arises  from  the  discovery, 
after  a  fair  experiment,  of  the  actual  superiority  of  the  new 
system  ;  or  whether  it  proceeds  from  a  vivid  recollection  of  the 
energetic  measures  employed  by  the  old  disciplinarians  in  spur- 
ring the  sluggish  intellect,  and  administering  correction  to  the 
refractory  ;  and  a  disposition  to  shield  the  objects  of  fondness 
and  affection  from  similar  inflictions ;  are  questions  still  in  pro- 
gress of  solution.  But  this  is  undeniably  true,  that  moral  sua- 
sion will  be  utterly  ineffective,  without  some  conception  of 
human  character.  Ignorance  upon  this  point  neutralizes  the 
effect  of  the  best  instruction.  That  system  of  discipline  which 
will  render  one  youth  an  ornament  to  society,  may  qualify 
another  to  be  a  ringleader  in  every  species  of  vice  and  sensual- 
ity. Stern  and  unsparing  reproof,  may  goad  the  sensitive  mind 
to  desperation.  The  reckless  offender  heeds  not  the  gentle 
admonition,  and  continued  lenity  inspires  him  with  contempt 
for  the  authority  so  lightly  imposed. 

Many,  otherwise  competent  instructors,  learned,  zealous,  and 
gifted  with  a  happy  faculty  of  communicating  information,  often 
have  occasion  to  lament,  that  their  indefatigable  labors  are  but 
meagrely  rewarded.  But  how  can  he  impart  instruction  suc- 
cessfully, who  is  unacquainted  with  the  nature  of  the  minds 
entrusted  to  his  guidance  and  development?  The  same  routine 
of  education  is  not  adapted  to  every  intellect.  The  nutriment 
which  will  expand  and  invigorate  one  mind,  will  as  certainly 
arrest  the  growth  and  impair  the  energies  of  another.  The 
dull  and  plodding  youth  requires  extraordinary  incentives  to 
activity,  while  the  same  incitements,  presented  to  the  ambitious, 
would  prove  hurtful  by  stimulating  to  over-exertion. 

If  teachers  were  more  generally  possessed  of  the  capacity  to 
discern  the  susceptibilities  of  the  youth  consigned  to  their  care, 
our  seminaries  would  be  more  flourishing  ;  our  literary  institu- 
tions more  effective  nurseries  of  learning ;  the  cause  of  educa- 
tion would  be  more  highly  esteemed,  and  the  diffusion  of  know- 
ledge greatly  accelerated. 

But  the  communication  of  instruction  is  not  confined  to 
schools  and  colleges.  Knowledge  may  be  constantly  imparted 
in  the  daily  walks  and  intercourse  of  life.  In  this  point  of 
view,  the  educated  are,  or  should  be,  all  teachers — not  of  chil- 
dren only,  but  of  men.  The  object  of  education  is  not  merely 
to  furnish  the  man  with  the  means  of  self-gratification,  although 
many  perceive  no  other  ultimate  end  to  be  accomplished.  "To 
do  good,  and  to  communicate,"   is  a  duty  enjoined  upon  us  by 


ADDRESS 


the  highest  authority.  Active,  earnest  and  unceasing  efforts  to 
ameliorate  the  condition  of  mankind,  physically,  intellectually, 
and  morally,  is  an  obligation  resting  upon  every  member  of 
society.  He  who  labours  most  assiduously  in  this  work  of 
philanthropy,  will  receive  the  highest  recompense  on  earth, 
and  the  brightest  crown  of  glory  in  heaven.  There  is  no  room 
in  society  for  the  drone.  The  indolent  are  rightfully  despised. 
By  a  wise  provision  in  our  code  of  laws,  the  vagrant  is  ac- 
counted a  transgressor,  and  is  adjudged  worthy  of  imprisonment, 
lest  his  example  should  contaminate  the  community.  The 
possession  of  affluence  or  talent  increases  the  obligations  of  the 
individual  thus  highly  favoured,  to  employ  his  endowments  in 
advancing  the  happiness  of  his  fellow-creatures,  and  suffering  is 
the  necessary  consequence  of  refusal.  Unless  wealth  be  devoted 
to  acts  of  charity  and  benevolence,  it  curses  its  possessor — it 
blights  the  finer  feelings  of  the  heart,  and  drains  all  the  sources 
of  happiness.  But  there  is  a  species  of  covetousness  equally 
sinful  with  the  lust  of  sordid  treasures.  It  is  that  disposition, 
often  manifested  by  learned  men,  to  accumulate  and  retain 
knowledge  solely  for  the  pleasure  of  its  pursuit  and  the  enjoy- 
ment which  its  possession  bestows  upon  them.  He  who  with- 
draws from  the  world  into  the  seclusion  of  his  study,  for  the 
selfish  purpose  of  feasting  alone  upon  the  fruit  which  he  has 
plucked  from  the  tree  of  knowledge,  is  chargeable  with  abusing 
the  gifts  of  Providence  in  wasting,  upon  his  inordinate  desires, 
stores  of  nourishing  food,  which,  if  distributed  among  his  fellow 
men,  might  have  fed  many  a  famishing  intellect,  and  stimulated 
many  another  into  vigorous  activity.  As  long  as  ignorance  and 
superstition  remain  in  the  world,  educated  men  have  no  right  to 
hoard  the  treasures  of  learning  which  they  have  amassed.  It  is  the 
design  of  Providence  that  the  faculties  of  the  human  mind  should 
be  improved  by  education.  For,  until  the  understanding  is  strength- 
ened, man  cannot  know  his  duty  to  his  Creator.  If,  therefore,  the 
cause  of  religion  be  the  cause  of  God,  and  mental  illumination 
prepares  the  way  for  spiritual  knowledge  ;  and  if  men  are  only 
stewards  of  the  talents  they  possess,  and  bound  to  employ  them 
actively  in  the  service  of  their  Maker,  how  grievously  do  they 
transgress,  who  bury  their  gifts  in  retirement,  and  withhold  them 
from  the  purposes  they  were  designed  to  subserve.  The  intellec- 
tual anchorite  is  an  order  of  beings  not  recognized  in  the  Divine 
government.  The  man  that  spends  a  lifetime  in  studying  the  habits 
of  a  single  insect,  or  in  endeavouring  to  discover  the  hidden  mys- 
teries in  the  life  of  a  vegetable,  though  his  pursuit  may  be  replete 


10 


ADDRESS 


with  interest,  confers  no  real  benefit  upon  the  world,  and  falls  far 
short  of  the  end  for  which  he  was  created.  Not  that  every 
object  of  investigation  should  be  brought  down  to  the  rigid 
standard  of  utilitarianism,  in  the  general  acceptation  of  the  term, 
but  that  every  occupation  should  tend  immediately  or  remotely 
to  the  advantage  of  the  human  race  and  the  glory  of  the  Creator. 

To  the  educated,  bearing  always  with  them  the  conviction 
that  it  is  their  duty  to  dispense  the  light  that  is  within  them — 
opportunities  are  constantly  presented  for  communicating  in- 
struction. Not  only  in  the  legislative  chamber — in  the  crowded 
church — in  the  court  of  justice — in  the  lecture  room — and  in 
the  presence  of  the  assembled  multitude — but  in  the  polished 
circle — in  the  social  club — in  the  public  conveyance — in  the 
casual  encounter  upon  the  thoroughfare — and  in  the  sick-room, 
there  may  be  found  occasions  for  scattering  precious  seed.  In 
this  sphere  of  duty,  however,  no  one  will  labour  long  without 
perceiving  the  absolute  necessity  of  knowing  the  general  char- 
acteristics of  the  human  mind.  To  impart  gratuitous  information 
to  full  grown  men,  is  an  undertaking  of  great  delicacy.  The 
pride  of  man  will  not  brook  the  open  and  direct  attempt  to 
communicate  unsolicited  knowledge.  For  the  proffered  favour 
pre-supposes  ignorance  in  the  intended  recipient,  and  there  is 
too  much  vanity  in  the  human  heart  to  bear  patiently  such  an 
implication.  Incessant  vigilance  and  caution,  therefore,  are 
necessary  in  this  department  of  labour,  so  as  on  the  one  hand, 
not  to  offend  by  officiousness !  and  on  the  other,  not  to  cast 
away  the  seed  upon  the  barren  desert  or  the  sterile  rock. 

"To  everything  there  is  a  season,  and  a  time  to  every  purpose 
under  the  heaven."  The  tumultuous  battle  field  is  not  the 
proper  place  for  a  sermon  upon  the  wickedness  of  war.  The 
voice  of  the  preacher  is  unheard  amidst  the  din  of  clashing 
weapons  and  the  curses  of  angry  combatants.  When  the  mind 
is  fully  occupied  by  some  intricate  calculation,  or  overwhelmed 
by  tidings  of  the  miscarriage  of  a  valuable  commercial  venture ; 
the  croakings  of  the  moralist  are  deemed  intrusive.  The  bar- 
rister engaged  in  the  conduct  of  a  complicated  cause;  or  the 
physician  burthened  with  solicitude  for  the  safety  of  a  patient 
in  the  crisis  of  disease,  is  impatient  under  the  well-meant  exhor- 
tations of  the  zealous  evangelist.  To  attempt  to  convince  the 
angry  man  in  the  fury  of  his  passion,  of  the  sinfulness  of  his 
conduct,  were  as  futile  as  to  reason  with  the  madman  upon  the 
causes  of  insanity,  or  remonstrate  with  the  whirlwind  for  the 
devastation  it  had  caused.     Many  men  of  the  strictest  rectitude 


ADDRESS 


II 


of  purpose,  instead  of  seizing  the  "golden  opportunity,"  account 
all  moments  golden,  all  seasons  convenient,  and  all  places  equally 
becoming;  and  thus  the  cause  which  they  love  is  often  "wound- 
ed in  the  house  of  its  friends." 

It  is  important  also,  to  know  the  proper  method,  as  well  as  the 
time  and  place,  of  exerting,  influence.  Here  again,  many  sad 
mistakes  are  often  made.  Approach  the  poor  inebriate  with 
words  of  harshness  and  rebuke,  and  he  will  turn  away  with 
loathing,  and  curse  you  in  his  heart.  But  address  him  in  accents 
of  kindness ;  sympathize  with  his  misery  in  such  a  way  as  not 
to  alarm  his  pride;  recall. to  his  mind  the  scenes  of  his  youth, 
his  innocence  and  his  happiness ;  and  speak  to  him  tenderly  of 
the  sufferings  of  his  wife  and  child,  and  you  will  have  touched  a 
chord  in  his  bosom,  inaccessible  to.  ruder  hands.  Then  let  in 
upon  the  darkness  of  his  despair  the  sunshine  of  hope,  and  lead 
him  gently  away  from  the  contemplation  of  his  wretchedness, 
until  you  make  him  feel  that  he  is  still  a  man,  and  capable  of 
elevating  himself  to  his  former  dignity,  and  you  may  have 
effected  in  him  the  commencement  of  a  blessed  reformation. 

There  is  a  way  of  stimulating  the  coward  to  deeds  of  bravery 
and  high  renown.  There  is  a  way  of  melting  into  penitence  the 
most  unprincipled  reprobate  that  ever  mocked  at  a  mother's 
prayers,  or  ridiculed  the  sorrows  of  a  gray-haired  and  broken- 
hearted father.  There  are  incentives  sufficiently  powerful  to 
arouse  the  energies  of  the  sluggard,  and  render  him  an  efficient 
auxiliar,  in  every  good  work. 

Some  minds  can  be  moved  only  by  harshness  and  intimidation  ; 
others  by  the  silken  cords  of  persuasion  and  love.  Argument, 
with  many,  only  confirms  them  in  error,  but  seem  to  yield  them 
the  mastery,  and  they  will  descend  from  their  elevated  stand, 
and,  at  length,  concede  whatever  is  required. 

In  the  use  of  the  means  of  influence,  much  care  and  circum- 
spection are  requisite,  lest  what  is  designed  for  good,  should  pro- 
duce a  disastrous  result.  The  amount  of  injury  committed  by 
the  imprudence,  or  ignorance,  of  well  meaning  men,  can  only 
be  known  in  eternity.  Many  a  youth,  doubtless,  who  might 
have  been  the  pride  of  a  parent's  heart,  has  reached  the  disgrace- 
ful terminus  of  a  course  of  crime,  through  the  misdirection  of 
indiscreet  counsellors.  Many  a  profligate,  who  had  attained  the 
verge  of  ruin,  might  have  been  rescued  by  a  skilful  hand,  but 
was  only  toppled  over  the  precipice.  Many  a  transgressor 
might  have  been  won  back  to  virtue  and  to  God  by  wise  words, 
that  was  only  hurried  farther  into   transgression.     Many  a  re- 


12 


ADDRESS 


turning  prodigal  would  have  found  a  father's  house,  and  re- 
ceived a  father's  welcome ;  but,  intercepted  by  officious  friends, 
he  was  driven  again  into  exile  and  riotous  living.  Many  an  out- 
cast who  might  have  been  reclaimed  from  his  sinful  career,  when 
his  heart  yearned  for  the  voice  of  pity  and  forgiveness,  encoun- 
tered only  bitter  upbraiding,  and  plunged  deeper  into  iniquity. 
And  many  a  child  of  promise,  who  might  have  attained  the  emi- 
nence on  which  a  Newton  or  a  Milton  stood,  has  had  his  facul- 
ties stunted  in  their  growth  by  the  heavy  impositions  of  hard 
task-masters  ;  or,  disgusted  with  the  uncongenial  studies  assigned 
him,  he  has  refused  to  put  forth  further  exertion,  and  has  sunk 
into  hopeless  lethargy  and  insignificance. 

They  who  were  instrumental  in  causing  such  calamities,  must 
expect  to  be  visited  with  the  retribution  they  deserve  ;  for  if  they 
had  qualified  themselves  for  their  stations,  as  teachers  and  coun- 
sellors, these  unhappy  consequences  might  have  been  prevented. 

The  great  number  of  the  members  of  this  Association,  are 
engaged  in  the  duties  of  a  professional  calling.  To  such,  this 
subject  forcibly  commends  itself.  It  is  scarcely  necessary  to 
remind  the  Lawyer,  that  to  be  intimately  conversant  with  man- 
kind is  essential  to  the  attainment  either  of  the  emoluments  or 
the  honourable  distinctions  of  his  profession.  Of  this  necessity 
he  soon  becomes  sensible,  after  entering  upon  his  career.  The 
nature  of  his  pursuit  brings  him  constantly  into  contact  with 
men.  Abundant  opportunities  are  afforded  him  of  studying 
human  character,  in  all  its  manifold  representations  ;  for  to  no 
other  individual  is  the  machinery  of  human  action  so  uncon- 
sciously exposed.  It  is  peculiarly  his  province  to  contend  with 
the  subtleties  of  the  human  heart.  With  the  ability  to  decipher 
the  meaning  of  faces,  and  discern  the  passions  and  propensities 
that  lie  beneath,  he  becomes  possessed  of  an  instrument  of  tre- 
mendous potency.  In  the  cross-examination  of  witnesses,  he 
wrings  the  truth  from  the  most  reluctant.  He  detects  and  ex- 
poses all  prevarications  ;  overthrows  all  subterfuges  of  falsehood  ; 
subdues  the  bold  and  overbearing ;  shames  the  impudent ;  tran- 
quillizes the  agitated  ;  encourages  the  fearful ;  and  emboldens  the 
diffident.  Through  every  avenue  of  the  heart  he  pursues  the 
truth  ;  no  dissimulation  can  baffle  ;  no  effrontery  confound  ;  no 
evasion  escape  detection. 

In  advocating  the  rights  of  the  injured  and  oppressed,  before 
a  jury  of  the  country,  this  acquisition  is  of  invaluable  assistance. 
It  gives  to  retort  its  pungency ;  to  irony  its  shaft ;  to  sarcasm 
its  poignant  sting.     It  enables  him  to   select  weapons  of  argu- 


ment  of  the  finest  temper,  and  to  wield  them  with  the  most 
powerful  effect.  Capable  of  reading  upon  the  countenances  of 
the  jury,  the  influence  of  every  word  addressed  to  them,  he 
rivets  the  attention  ;  he  convinces  the  understanding ;  he  carries 
captive  the  feelings ;  he  secures  the  verdict  for  his  client ;  and 
vindicates  the  cause  of  justice,  truth  and  innocence. 

But  the  high-minded  Lawyer  is  sometimes  required,  in  the 
conscientious  practice  of  his  profession,  to  dissuade  from  litiga- 
tion ;  not  only  where  the  pecuniary  interests  of  his  client  would 
suffer  from  the  prosecution  of  the  action,  but  also  where  the 
peace  of  society  would  be  frivolously  disturbed,  and  especially 
where  the  cause  of  morality  or  religion  would  be  injuriously  af- 
fected. No  honourable  man  will  lend  himself  to  be  the  base  in- 
strument of  gratifying  malignity,  nor  will  he  obey  the  behests  of 
the  vindictive  and  the  oppressor,  whatever  may  be  the  magni- 
tude of  the  promised  remuneration.  But  it  is  not  enough  to 
refuse  to  undertake  the  management  of  the  proffered  cause. 
Another  more  compliant  tool  of  malice,  or  revenge,  may  be 
found  to  consummate  the  deed  of  iniquity.  It  is  the  duty  of  the 
upright  Lawyer  to  endeavour  to  obtain  an  abandonment  of  the 
intended  wrong.  For  this  purpose  he  will  need  a  familiar  ac- 
quaintance with  human  character.  The  most  ungovernable  pas- 
sions of  our  fallen  nature  must  be  encountered,  and  all  the 
resources  of  the  active  mind — reason,  expostulation,  ridicule  and 
intimidation,  must  be  successively  employed  to  effectuate  their 
overthrow.  But  if  the  victory  should  be  gained  ;  if  the  pur- 
posed injury  to  society  should  be  prevented,  and  the  threatened 
blow  to  virtue  be  intercepted ;  though  the  fame  of  the  deed  may 
never  extend  beyond  the  precincts  of  the  council-chamber,  the 
approbation  of  a  good  conscience,  and  the  consciousness  of  hav- 
ing fulfilled  a  sacred  duty,  will  be  a  reward  far  more  satisfactory 
than  all  human  applause. 

The  Physician  finds  frequent  occasion  for  the  application  of 
this  attainment,  in  the  exercise  of  his  noble  profession.  He 
also,  is  required  to  exert  a  controlling  influence  over  other 
minds.  He  exacts,  and  expects,  obedience  to  all  his  injunctions. 
He  must  reign  supreme  in  the  chamber  of  affliction.  None 
should  gainsay  his  authority,  nor  rebel  against  his  reasonable  re- 
quirements. 

Without  the  moral  power  to  enforce  submission  to  his  man- 
dates, his  ministrations  will  eventuate  calamitously  to  his  patients, 
and  disparagingly  to  his  own  reputation.  In  his  demeanor  to- 
wards the  subjects  of  disease,  he  is  compelled  to  use  the  most 


© 


14  ADDRESS 


careful  discretion.  He  must  inspire  confidence  in  his  skill; 
dispel  apprehensions  of  immediate  danger  ;  and  excite  hope  of 
final  recovery.  In  order,  therefore,  to  act  wisely  under  all  cir- 
cumstances, he  should  be  able  to  ascertain,  without  delay,  the 
peculiar  disposition  of  those  whom  he  is  called  to  relieve. 

But  he  is  not  confined,  in  the  practice  of  his  profession,  to  the 
cure  of  maladies  of  the  body.  He  is  sometimes  summoned  to 
"minister  to  a  mind  diseas'd,"  and  commanded  to 

"  Pluck  from  the  memory  a  rooted  sorrow, 
Raze  out  the  written  troubles  of  the  brain, 
And  with  some  sweet  oblivious  antidote 
Cleanse  the  stuff 'd  bosom  of  that  perilous  stuff 
Which  weighs  upon  the  heart." 

In  such  an  emergency,  mercury  and  depletion  lose  their 
talismanic  influence  ;  the  infinitesimal  medicaments  of  the 
homoeopathic  school  affect  not  even  the  imagination  ;  and 
hydropathy,  with  all  its  invigorating  virtue  upon  the  outward 
man,  is  powerless  to  reach  the  seat  of  the  disorder.  Strong 
common  sense,  and  a  familiarity  with  the  laws  of  the  mind  and 
the  character  of  the  patient,  alone,  possess  any  efficacy. 

Life  or  death  may  be  suspended  upon  the  language  and 
deportment  of  the  physician.  Cases  occur  where  it  is  essential 
that  he  should  weigh  every  word,  and  exercise  the  most  cau- 
tious circumspection  over  his  conduct,  in  order  to  convey  the 
sufferer  safely  over  the  fearful  crisis  of  disease.  At  such  a  time 
every  movement  of  his  body,  and  every  change  of  his  counte- 
nance are  closely  watched  by  relatives  and  friends,  and  a  single 
unguarded  action  or  expression  may  precipitate  the  dreadful 
calamity.  If  the  attendants  that  surround  the  couch  of  the 
invalid,  are  endued  with  strong  mental  control,  he  can  explain, 
from  time  to  time,  with  perfect  safety,  the  condition  of  the  suf- 
ferer ;  but  if  they  are  easily  excited,  and  prone  to  give  way  to 
boisterous  ebullitions  of  feeling,  it  is  his  duty  to  be  silent,  lest 
their  agitation  should  reach  the  ear  of  the  afflicted  one,  and 
accelerate  the  ravages  of  the  disease.  The  patient  himself,  in 
cases  of  extremity,  should  be  informed  of  his  situation,  and  it 
depends  much  upon  the  manner  in  which  the  physician  imparts 
the  appalling  truth,  whether  the  communication  will  induce  a 
serious  preparation  for  the  probable  issue,  or  only  aggravate  the 
malady,  and  hasten  dissolution. 

Is  this  subject  worthy  of  the  consideration  of  him  who  min- 
isters at  the  holy  altar  1     Is  it  not  practicable  for  him  to  direct 


ADDRESS 


the  minds  of  men  to  the  contemplation  of  spiritual  things  from 
the  elevated  pulpit,  and  through  the  silent  press,  without  an 
intimate  association  with  them,  and  an  attentive  observance  of 
their  character  ?  Does  not  the  nature  of  his  vocation  exempt 
him  from  this  necessity  ?  By  no  means.  There  are  ministers 
of  the  Gospel  who  hold  it  unseemly  in  members  of  their  sacred 
profession  to  maintain  a  commerce  with  the  world  so  familiar 
as  the  study  of  human  nature  would  seem  to  require.  No 
greater  mistake  can  be  made.  He  who  commanded  them  to  be 
"  harmless  as  doves,"  enjoined  upon  them  likewise  to  be  "  wise 
as  serpents."  They  are  great  teachers  of  moral  and  religious 
trufli, — they  should  be  wise  to  know  the  appropriate  time,  and 
place,  and  method,  of  rendering  it  effective. 

They  are  ambassadors  from  heaven, — they  should  be  wise  to 
take  advantage  of  every  circumstance  which  may  promote  the 
object  of  their  embassy.  They  are  watchmen  in  the  church, — 
they  should  be  wise  not  only  to  discover  the  approach  of  the 
enemy,  but  also  to  detect  his  presence  within  the  walls.  An 
indiscriminate  intercourse  with  men  is  not  advisable,  nor  is  it 
necessary,  for  the  acquisition  of  this  wisdom.  It  would 
be  highly  unbecoming  in  them,  to  descend  from  the  serene 
mount  of  communion  with  their  Maker,  and  mingle  with  the 
stormy  passions,  the  bitter  prejudices,  the  noisy  strife  of  political 
contest,  and  the  clamorous  wrestling  for  worldly  honour  and 
affluence,  which  are  incident  to  secular  employments.  But  the 
minister  can  avoid  all  such  occasions  of  offence,  and  still  be- 
come an  adept  in  the  knowledge  of  human  nature. 

How  few  profit  by  their  privileges  !  Satisfied  if  they  can 
gain  an  acquaintance  with  their  own  hearts,  they  seldom 
think  of  watching  the  motives  which  actuate  the  conduct  of 
their  fellow-men. 

Secluded  within  the  walls  of  the  college,  or  the  seminary, 
from  the  period  of  their  childhood,  they  enter  into  the  battle  of 
life,  unarmed  and  unprepared  for  the  struggles  that  await  them. 
Unlike  men  of  other  pursuits,  instead  of  quietly  taking  their 
places  in  the  ranks,  and  suffering  themselves  to  be  borne  along 
with  the  crowd,  until  they  can  snatch  a  weapon  of  defence,  and 
learn  the  art  of  warfare  by  actual  experience ;  under  the  dic- 
tates of  an  erroneous  conception  of  their  duty,  they  strive  to 
retire  from  the  conflict,  but  only  expose  themselves  to  ruder 
blows,  and  become  entangled  in  greater  perplexities. 

Without  some  knowledge  of  the  world,  the  clergyman  may 
be  as  learned  as  Chalmers  ;  as  profound  as  Edwards  ;   as  devo- 


16 


ADDRESS 


tedly  pious  as  Payson  or  McCheyne,  yet  the  sphere  of  his 
usefulness  will  be  circumscribed  within  narrow  limits — he  is 
only  partially  qualified  for  the  profession  whose  active  requisi- 
tions and  solemn  responsibilities  he  has  assumed.  He  is  the 
subject  of  every  practical  joke, — the  victim  of  every  boyish 
amusement;  and  though  admired  in  the  pulpit  for  his  splendid 
abilities  and  varied  acquisitions,  he  is  pitied,  and  even  ridiculed, 
for  his  artless  and  infantile  simplicity.  He  is  constantly  imposed 
upon  by  the  plausible  dissembler.  He  expends  his  benevolence 
upon  unworthy  objects  of  charity.  He  lends  his  influence  to 
visionary,  useless,  and  injurious  projects.  He  moves  through 
the  community,  continually  violating  the  usages  and  courtesies 
of  society,  but  is  incapable  of  seeing  the  reflection  of  his  con- 
duct in  the  countenances  of  his  observers  ;  and  while  all  the 
world  may  be  amused  at  his  foibles,  he  is  wholly  unconscious  of 
their  derision.  When  either  in  the  courageous  discharge  of  his 
duty,  or  under  the  impulse  of  a  zeal  without  knowledge,  he  has 
given  offence,  unable  to  perceive  the  indications  of  the  gathering 
storm,  he  unwittingly  places  himself  in  its  very  pathway,  and  is 
beaten  down,  or  swept  aside  with  violence,  astounded  at  the 
suddenness  with  which  the  calamity  overtook  him. 

The  divine  should  always  prepare  his  discourses  with  a  direct 
reference  to  the  character  and  wants  of  his  people,  and  the  state 
of  feeling  in  his  congregation.  He  who  preaches  at  random  is 
likely  to  effect  as  little  as  he  who  prays  at  random.  It  is  possi- 
ble to  sit  under  the  dispensation  of  Divine  truth,  from  youth  to 
hoary  age,  and  in  all  that  time  not  to  have  had  the  sensibilities 
affected.  The  matter  of  the  sermons  may  have  been  sound  and 
evangelical,  and  the  manner  of  the  preacher  earnest  and  impas- 
sioned, and  yet  words  of  fire  may  have  fallen  unheeded  upon 
hearts  of  stone,  which  had  penetrated  into  their  inmost  recesses 
had  the  proper  mode  of  entrance  been  ascertained. 

Some  may  be  disposed  to  impugn  the  orthodoxy  of  these 
views,  and  to  say  that  instruments  are  of  no  account,  so  long  as 
the  truth  is  preached  in  sincerity.  But  the  doctrine  of  the  spe- 
cial interposition  of  the  spirit  to  supply  the  deficiency  of  the 
preacher,  has  long  since  been  exploded.  God  works  by  instru- 
ments, and  he  requires  his  servants  to  be  "  thoroughly  fur- 
nished uuto  all  good  works."  Their  fitness  for  the  office  is  the 
strongest  evidence  that  they  have  been  called  to  the  work  of  the 
ministry.  Observation  teaches  us  that  those  divines  who  have 
been  most  conversant  with  the  follies  and  vices  of  men — whe- 
ther they  were  once  participants   themselves,  or  only  had  a 


ADDRESS.  17 


favourable  opportunity  of  observing  them  from  a  distance — are 
always  the  most  efficient  evangelists.  They  are  the  most 
capable  of  portraying  the  nature  and  bitter  consequences  of  a 
career  of  iniquity.  They  can  trace  through  all  the  labyrinths 
of  the  breast,  the  evil  thought  to  its  fountain-head.  They  can 
expose  to  the  man  of  transgression,  the  corruptions  of  his  life 
in  all  its  hideous  deformity.  And  they  can  present  to  the  mind, 
motives  for  reformation,  of  irresistible  power.  Where  the  lan- 
guage of  others  would  only  obdurate,  their  appeals  penetrate  to 
the  quick— alarm,  humble,  encourage,  and  incite. 

In  administering  balm  to  the  wounded  spirit,  and  consolation 
to  the  afflicted  ;  in  dissipating  doubt ;  in  relieving  perplexity  ; 
in  detecting  spurious  piety  ;  in  repressing  wild  enthusiasm  ;  and 
in  inflicting  the  discipline  of  the  church  upon  the  faithless  pro- 
fessor— the  minister  necessarily  meets  with  a  diversity  of  char- 
acter ;  and  happy  will  he  be,  in  time  and  eternity,  if  he  accom- 
modate his  words  and  actions  so  wisely  to  the  various  subjects 
of  his  ministrations,  as  never  to  err  or  injure,  but  in  every 
instance  promote  the  spiritual  welfare  of  the  souls  intrusted  to 
his  charge. 

Educated  men  have  many  infelicities,  which  have  subjected 
them  to  ridicule  and  animadversion,  from  the  days  of  Homer  to 
the  present  time.  Many  of  them  result  from  ignorance  of 
human  character.  It  is  only  necessary,  at  this  time,  to  allude  to 
one.  It  is  that  excessive  sensitiveness — that  shrinking  of  the 
mind  from  a  contact  with  the  world — and  that  want  of  self-con- 
fidence which  characterizes  many  of  studious  and  retired  habits. 
That  it  renders  them  unhappy,  and  injures  their  usefulness,  they 
themselves  are  deeply  sensible,  and  would  eagerly  grasp  at  any 
means  of  overcoming  their  embarrassment.  Perhaps  it  never 
occurred  to  them,  that  their  diffidence  might  be  the  effect  of  a 
deeply-seated  and  inordinate  love  of  approbation. 

Is  it  not  true,  that  the  diffident  man  bears  with  him  an  abiding 
consciousness  of  inferiority,  and  that  he  cherishes  an  insatiable 
desire  to  obtain  the'  admiration  of  his  fellow-men  ?  He  performs 
no  action  that  he  does  not  immediately  wish  undone,  that  he 
may  execute  it  more  creditably.  He  expresses  no  sentiment 
that  he  does  not  desire  to  retract,  lest  it  may  prejudice  him  in 
the  estimation  of  his  audience.  He  is  constantly  upon  the  rack 
of  uneasiness,  with  the  apprehension  that  some  rash  word,  or 
inconsiderate  deed,  may  detract  from  his  reputation  for  wisdom 
or  sagacity,  or  obstruct  him  in  the  attainment  of  those  marks  of 
distinction  to  which  he  ardently  aspires. 
3 


18 


ADDRESS 


Diffidence  must  be  carefully  distinguished  from  modesty. 
The  latter  is  eminently  praiseworthy.  The  truly  wise  are 
habitually  modest.  As  the  mind  becomes  enlightened,  the 
capacity  to  perceive  the  insignificance  of  all  human  attainments, 
becomes  painfully  enlarged.  There  are  so  many  evidences  of 
wisdom  in  the  works  of  creation,  the  scope  and  design  of  which 
are  incomprehensible  to  the  finite  intellect;  so  many  sciences, 
with  elementary  principles  scarcely  yet  discovered  by  the  most 
profound  ;  so  many  steeps  of  knowledge,  with  summits  yet 
hidden  in  the  immensity  of  space  ;  and  so  many  depths  envel- 
oped in  darkness  still  unexplored — that  the  most  gifted  mind 
recoils  within  itself  at  the  impossibility  of  encompassing  the 
boundlessness  of  science.  But  the  modest  man,  with  all  his 
humility,  in  view  of  the  wisdom  of  Omniscience,  is  not  distrust- 
ful of  himself  in  the  presence  of  his  fellow-men.  Nor  is  he  so 
keenly  sensitive  to  praise  or  censure,  as  the  diffident.  Under 
all  circumstances,  he  maintains  his  self-possession,  and  with 
firmness,  yet  without  any  assumption  of  superiority ;  asserts  his 
dignity,  and  vindicates  his  claims,  to  attention  and  respect. 
Bashfulness  in  the  educated — until  every  method  of  surmount- 
ing it  has  been  tried,  without  success — is  a  vice.  The  world 
makes  no  allowance  for  their  mistakes,  and  it  is  questionable 
whether  they  are  entitled  to  it.  Timidity  is  attributed  to  stu- 
pidity, and  the  blunders  of  a  bashful  man  are  the  lawful  pro- 
perty of  every  jester  in  society.  Cowper,  one  of  the  most 
modest  of  men,  has  written — 

"Sweet  bashfulness,  it  claims  at  least  this  praise, 
The  dearth  of  iuformation  and  good  sense 
That  it  foretells  us,  always  comes  to  pass." 

There  is  a  happy  medium  between  impudent  assurance  on 
the  one  hand,  and  fearful  distrust  on  the  other ;  but  of  the  two 
extremes,  the  former,  paradoxical  as  it  may  appear,  is  received 
with  the  greater  favour  by  mankind,  and  presents  fairer  pros- 
pects of  success  in  every  undertaking. 

Let  the  diffident  man,  then,  turning  his  attention  from  his  own 
imperfections,  enter  seriously  upon  the  study  of  mankind.  Let 
him  notice  the  frivolous  objects  of  their  pursuits,  and  the  trifling 
aim  of  their  aspirations  ;  the  facility  with  which  their  minds  are 
swayed  by  passion  and  interest ;  the  childish  follies  of  the 
greatest  men,  and  the  simple  toys  which  will  afford  them  gratifi- 
cation ;  and  the  readiness  with  which  public  opinion  can  be 
manufactured  and  unmade — and  he  will  not  only  learn  to  respect 


ADDRESS.  19 


himself,  but  compel  the  respect  of  others  ;  he  will  acquire  inde- 
pendence of  thought  and  action  ;  and  no  longer  stoop  to  worship 
at  the  shrine  of  a  fluctuating  popularity. 

It  is  not  properly  within  the  purview  of  our  subject,  to  offer 
any  suggestions  which  may  facilitate  the  study  of  human  char- 
acter. Every  individual  that  enters  upon  it,  will  probably  pursue 
a  course  peculiar  to  himself.  Some  may  call  to  their  assistance 
the  recently  discovered  system  of  phrenology.  But  whatever 
may  be  the  justice  of  the  claims  of  this  discovery  to  rank 
among  the  sciences — an  examination  of  the  cerebral  developments 
in  search  of  character,  would  be  at  all  times  inconvenient,  and 
generally  impracticable — physiognomy  can  be  employed  to  a 
limited  extent ;  but  words  and  actions  are  as  important  in  the 
estimation  of  character,  as  the  expression  of  the  countenance. 

In  general,  a  close  and  vigilant  scrutiny  of  the  disposition  of 
every  man  encountered  in  the  walks  of  life,  whether  it  be 
evinced  by  the  language  of  the  actions,  of  the  lips,  or  of  the 
features,  will  be  rewarded  betimes  by  a  satisfactory  insight  into 
human  nature.  An  occasional  interview  with  an  individual, 
unless  he  studiously  endeavours  to  conceal  the  manifestations  of 
his  natural  temper,  will  enable  the  attentive  observer  to  learn  at 
least  his  ruling  passion,  and  the  strong  impulses  of  his  nature. 
But  to  the  adept,  a  word  casually  dropped  in  conversation — the 
sparkling  of  the  eye ;  the  compression  of  the  lips ;  or  the  lights 
and  shadows  which  alternate  in  the  countenance — will  furnish  a 
key  to  the  treasure-chamber  of  the  thoughts  and  emotions. 

Hasty  conclusions,  however,  from  a  superficial  examination, 
must  be  carefully  avoided. 

In  the  words  of  an  apparent  master  of  the  science — 

"  Sometimes  at  a  glance  thou  judgest  well ;  years  could  add  little  to  thy 
knowledge : 
When  charity  gloweth  on  the  cheek,  or  malice  is  lowering  in  the  eye, 
When  honesty's  open  brow,  or  the  weasel  face  of  cunning  is  before  thee, 
Or  the  loose  lip  of  wantonness,  or  clear  bright  forehead  of  reflection. 
But  often,  by  shrewd  scrutiny,  thou  judgest  to  the  good  man's  harm : 
For  it  may  be  his  hour  of  trial,  or  he  slumbereth  at  his  post, 
Or  he  hath  slain  his  foe,  but  not  yet  levelled  the  stronghold, 
Or  barely  recovered  of  the  wounds,  that  fleshed  him  in  his  'fray  with 

passion. 
Also,  of  the  worst,  through  prejudice,  thou  loosely  shalt  think  well : 
For  none  is  altogether  evil,  and  thou  may'st  catch  him  at  his  prayers, 
There  may  be  one  small  prize,  though  all  beside  be  blanks  ; 
A  silver  thread  of  goodness  in  the  black  sergecloth  of  crime."    Tupper. 


20 


ADDRESS. 


When  the  educated  man  has  acquired  this  subtlety  in  judging 
of  character,  his  capability  of  doing  good  is  beyond  computa- 
tion. Clad  in  an  impenetrable  panoply  of  defence  against  im- 
position, deception  and  ridicule,  like  a  skilful  fencer,  he  can 
strike  just  where  his  blows  will  be  most  effective  ;  if  necessary, 
disarming  his  adversary  and  prostrating  him  uninjured  ;  proving 
his  superiority,  and  compelling  deference  to  his  skill. 

He  moves  along  in  the  masquerade  of  life  with  the  power 
of  piercing  the  various  disguises  of  his  companions !  and  if 
justice,  propriety,  or  good  order,  should  require  the  exposure, 
he  occasionally  uplifts  the  masks  that  hide  the  visages  of  the 
company,  and  exhibits  the  scion  df  nobility  clothed  in  the  gar- 
ments of  the  serf!  the  boor,  tricked  out  in  the  robes  of  roy- 
alty! the  hypocrite,  in  the  garb  of  the  saint!  the  base,  wearing 
the  semblance  of  the  honourable  !  the  mean  and  sordid,  in  the 
guise  of  the  generous  and  charitable ;  and  the  kind  and  gentle 
nature,  concealed  under  an  exterior  of  cold  and  repulsive  aus- 
terity. 

He  is  the  true  friend  of  the  wretched  and  the  destitute ;  for 
he  is  sure  of  conferring  his  charities  only  upon  the  real  and 
deserving  sufferer. 

He  is  the  strong  champion  of  the  weak  and  defenceless 
'*  little  ones,"  for  he  can  anticipate  the  blow  of  the  oppressor, 
and  throw  around  them  the  mantle  of  his  protection. 

He  is  a  successful  peacemaker ;  for  he  knows  how  to  assuage 
the  elements  of  strife,  before  they  have  ripened  into  the  un- 
governable tempest. 

He  is  a  light  to  the  benighted  mind,  and  a  guide  to  the  erring. 
In  short,  he  can  distribute  with  a  liberal  hand  the  wealth  of  a 
well-stored  intellect,  and  the  largess  of  a  heart  overflowing 
with  goodness ;  assured  that  his  benefactions  will  neither  be 
abused,  nor  return  to  him  without  having  accomplished  the 
object  of  his  philanthropy. 

In  urging  this  subject  upon  your  consideration,  with  such 
earnestness,  we  would  not  be  understood  as  deprecating  the 
value  of  literary  and  scientific  attainments.  It  is  farthest  from 
our  purpose  to  magnify  its  importance,  at  the  expense  of  other 
means  of  training  and  expanding  the  intellect,  which  are  of 
primary  moment.  The  study  of  the  ancient  classics  and  the 
exact  sciences,  furnish  the  mind  with  a  vigor  and  copiousness, 
which  will  be  sought  for  in  vain  elsewhere.  We  claim  for  our 
subject  only  the  place  of  an  adjunct  to  other  important  acquisi- 
tions.    It  is  but  an  instrument  by  which  the  energies  of  the  cul- 


ADDRESS.  21 


tivated  mind  are  made  more  effective.  As  a  weapon  is  of  no 
avail  without  the  muscular  arm  to  give  it  motion  and  efficacy, — 
as  the  magnifier  is  useless  without  the  organ  of  vision — so  the 
knowledge  of  human  character  is  inefficient,  without  the  disci- 
plined and  vigorous  intellect  to  apply  it  to  useful  purposes. 

Thus,  gentlemen,  feebly  and  inadequately,  but  with  an  earnest 
desire  to  make  this  annual  meeting  an  occasion  of  good,  the 
task  assigned  me  by  your  partiality  has  been  performed.  We 
have  enjoyed  a  pleasant  season  of  communion  and  a  brief  re- 
laxation from  the  cares  and  labours  of  our  worldly  pursuits. 
When  the  exercises  of  this  commencement  shall  have  been  con- 
cluded, we  will  separate,  to  repair  again  to  our  several  avocations. 

Upon  this  spot — the  scene  of  our  early  privileges,  and  the 
home  of  our  most  delightful  associations,  we  may  not  meet 
again.  But  the  links  which  bind  us  together  in  brotherhood 
have  been  strengthened  by  this  interview.  When  we  descend 
from  this  eminence  of  learning,  to  wrestle  again  with  the  world, 
we  will  bear  on  our  hearts  the  interests  of  every  member  of 
this  association.  If,  in  future  time,  distinction  or  success 
should  crown  the  honourable  enterprises  of  any  of  our  number, 
we  will  rejoice  over  his  honours  as  if  they  were  our  own.  If 
adverse  fortune  should  occur  to  any,  we  will  proffer  our  sym- 
pathies and  good  offices.  If  death,  we  will  mourn,  with  the 
sorrow  of  bereaved  brethren.  The  Institution,  which  was  the 
birth-place  of  our  mental  endowments,  will  live  in  our  memo- 
ries till  the  latest  hour  of  life.  We  will  cherish  the  lessons  of 
love  to  God,  to  man,  and  our  country,  with  which  she  imbued 
our  youthful  minds,  and  her  continued  prosperity  will  ever  be  a 
source  of  pride  and  heartfelt  elation.  May  we  comport  our- 
selves with  such  propriety  that  she  will  never  blush  to  own  us 
as  her  sons  ! 


LB2325 .L77 

Obituary  addresses  delivered  on  the 

Princeton  Theological  Seminary-Speer  Librar 


1       1    1012  00085  2162 


